Understanding Scripture and Salvation History

Scripture

A sacred writing. The collection of all the canonical books (the bible).

Old Testament

Books written before the coming of Jesus.

New Testament

Books written after the coming of Jesus.

Tradition

The living transmission of the message of the Gospel in the Church.

Magisterium

The teaching authority of the church.

Inspired

Means 'breathed in'. God the Holy Spirit guided the sacred authors who wrote the books of the bible.

Inerrant

Means without error. Scripture does not error in teaching the truth God wishes it to teach.

Salvation History

The story of God's plan to save humanity from the consequence of sin. This plan begins with Creation, is unfolding now, and will continue until the end of time.

Covenant

An agreement that establishes a sacred family bond between persons. Similar to a contract, but involves much more.

Revelation

Disclosure by God himself and his will to the human race.

Natural Revelation

Beauty and order of creation and Love experienced through personal relationships.

Divine Revelation

Prophets, miracles, sacraments, scripture, and tradition.

Soul

Spiritual and immortal part of human beings that animates the body. Our spiritual principle.

Canon

The list of inspired books. Greek for 'measuring rod'.

Liturgy

The official public worship of the Church.

Orthodoxy

Conformed to Christ's image.

Apostolicity

Translated to the Apostles.

Catholicity

Used in the liturgical worship of the universal Church.

Council of Trent

In 1546 solemnly defined the canon of Scripture.

Catholic

Universal.

Infallible

Not capable of failing.

BC

Before Christ (BCE).

AD

Anno Domini 'In the Year of our Lord' (CE).